TVK chief Vijay on Sunday dismissed claims of a four-cornered contest in the Tamil Nadu assembly elections, asserting that the real battle is between his party and the ruling DMK, while outlining a governance model centred on technology and service delivery, PTI reported.
Addressing a rally, Vijay said, “It is not 4-cornered or 40-cornered fight. There are only two sides here: One is TVK, the other is DMK. Do you want an anti-people Stalin government, or Vijay, who loves people? That's all this election is.”
The actor-politician also undertook a bicycle ride at the venue as part of his outreach campaign. A similar exercise earlier in Karaikudi had turned chaotic, but arrangements in Kanyakumari ensured better crowd management.
Vijay unveiled a “21st-century good governance” vision, proposing India’s first Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, along with plans for an AI City and a dedicated AI University, stating the sector could contribute USD 1.7 trillion to India by 2035.
He also proposed a “Tamil Nadu Citizen Privilege Card” to ensure doorstep delivery of welfare benefits without intermediaries. “This isn't a story like the ones told by Stalin sir; this is scientifically possible. Currently, the system is not 'good governance,' it is 'harassment'. Bribes don't just stop at the officer; a share goes to the minister. We will break this chain,” he said.
The TVK chief said a “Right to Service Act” would be enacted within six months of assuming office and announced a “Vettri Tamil Nadu” Super App to digitise public services such as ration cards and driving licences.
On the state’s finances, Vijay alleged that Tamil Nadu’s debt had crossed Rs 10.5 lakh crore, claiming that borrowings in the last five years exceeded those of the previous decades. “Every rupee spent on interest is a rupee stolen from your child's education and your family's healthcare,” he said.
He also proposed a “People’s Forum” to enable digital participation, where petitions with 5 lakh verified signatures would mandate discussion in the state assembly.
Urging voters to back his party, Vijay called for a “Whistle Revolution,” referring to the party’s symbol. “I have come for you, bearing all the pain, and I will never cheat you with lies. Give your brother one chance,” he said.
The campaign has, however, seen disruptions, with criticism over cancelled meetings and confusion regarding schedules. Vijay had cancelled a scheduled speech in Karaikudi on April 11, disappointing supporters.
Later, TVK general secretary N Anand clarified that the Kanyakumari rally would proceed and urged supporters not to follow Vijay’s convoy to avoid overcrowding and accidents. He also advised vulnerable groups to participate virtually.
Vijay is scheduled to address a rally in Aranthangi in Pudukkottai on April 14, though the event is yet to be confirmed. Elections to the 234-member Tamil Nadu assembly will be held on April 23.Also See:
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